3 April 2023
It is with deep sadness that, on behalf of the Northern Territory Government, I acknowledge the passing of Yunupingu AM.
A Gumatj man, Yunupingu was a senior Yolngu elder who will be remembered as an incomparable leader for his people and, more widely, a mentor and role model for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians alike.
Yunupingu was instrumental in the struggle for Land Rights and self-determination for Aboriginal people. His advocacy tangibly changed lives for the better.
Working alongside his father, Gumatj clan leader Mungurrawuy, Yunupingu created the first traditional Aboriginal documents recognised by the Australian Commonwealth Parliament - the Yirrkala Bark Petitions.
He came to national attention around the same time for his role as court interpreter in the landmark Gove Land Rights Case. Though unsuccessful, it was the first legal action of its kind by Indigenous Australians to challenge mining companies rights to access Aboriginal land.
Yunupingu served on the Yirrkala Town Council and joined the Northern Land Council in 1975. His leadership and advocacy resulted in the return of all Aboriginal Reserves and most claimed areas in the Top End of the Northern Territory to Aboriginal ownership, and he played a key role in negotiations surrounding the Ranger Uranium Mine Agreement.
In 2008, Yunupingu led the presentation of another petition to the Australian Parliament - this time to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd asking for formal recognition of the rights of Aboriginal people through constitutional reform.
And in 2019 he was announced as one of 20 members of a Senior Advisory Group tasked with the co-design of The Voice to Parliament.
Yunupingu was a visionary who cared deeply for people and our home here in the Northern Territory. He believed in a better future, and he worked tirelessly to create one. His legacy will never be bested and it is my hope it continues for generations to come.
Northern Territory Government
